Detecting Local Clusters in the Data on Disease Vectors Influenced by Linear Features

摘要

Spatial scan statistic has been applied in manydisease vector studies. However it rarely takes into account somerelevant contextual information. As a result, the interpretationof the test results has been challenging and some interpretationscould be misleading. In this study, a new technique to applyspatial scan statistic for the detection of local clusters in diseasevectors is proposed. This new technique takes into accountrelevant contextual information. In particular, it considers theinfluences of linear features on the distribution of disease vectors.A case study on malaria vectors was conducted to elucidate thisnew technique. The results of the case study indicate that theproposed approach can provide a more meaningful identificationand interpretation of local malaria vector clusters than theoriginal spatial scan statistic.